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Ubuntu 7.10 (also known as Gutsy Gibbon) is an open source distribution of Linux based on the highly acclaimed Debian GNU/Linux operating system and built around the well known GNOME desktop environment.

Distributed as Desktop and Alternate CDs for 32-bit and 64-bit PCs

It was officially released by Canonical on October 18, 2007 and was regularly updated with security fixes, patches and applications until April 18th, 2009. It’s still available for download as Desktop and Alternate Live CD ISO images, supporting both 32-bit and 64-bit architectures.

As usual, a Server edition of Ubuntu 7.10 is also available for download on the dedicated section, along with a unique edition that could be deployed on a Sony PlayStation 3 (PS3) gaming console.

It is very important to mention here that all these ISO images are vulnerable to a very serious flaw in the cryptographic library (USN-612-1), and users are urged to apply all the available security updates immediately after installation.

Boot options

From the boot prompt of the Desktop Live CDs, users can start an existing operating system installed on the first disk drive, run a memory test, start Ubuntu with default settings or in safe graphics mode, as well as to install the distribution without testing it (not recommended).

Uses the GNOME Classic desktop environment

As mentioned, the live session is powered by the GNOME desktop environment, which is comprised of two panels, one on the bottom edge of the screen for switching between virtual desktops and interacting with running apps, and a top one for launching apps.